Guide to Tamarindo (and beyond) » Groceries & Shopping in Tamarindo

Groceries & Shopping in Tamarindo

Where to Grocery Shop in Tamarindo

Grocery shopping is surprisingly easy in Tamarindo. Tamarindo has two small grocery stores in town and a very large “american style” grocery store just at the edge of town, and between those three locations you can find just about anything on your grocery list.

It is worth noting that shopping in Costa Rica can be expensive, especially when you are buying items that have been imported. Costa Rica has a very high import tax, and that tax is added on to the price of things, so if you can live without brands you know, it’s best to buy local products when you can to save some cash.

Super Pura Vida

The Super Pura Vida is the newest market to join the Tamarindo community and it is located just to the south of the Super 2001. It’s clean and has a decent selection of the necessities. The staff is very friendly and many speak both English and Spanish. Prices are all pretty much the same in Tamarindo, so if you’re on the south side of town, this is a convenient location to grab some goods and head to the beach. They accept both cash and credit cards.

Super 2001

The Super 2001 is located across from the big white condo tower called Pacific Park. It’s down the road (toward Langosta) from Sharky’s, and right next to Cafe Tico. It’s another great place to get basic necessities (chips, bread, water, beer, wine, liquor, soda, cleaning supplies, etc). It’s not the ideal place for fresh vegetables or fruit, though some items are available. The accept cash (Dollars & Colones) or Credit Cards, but be warned, the often times require photo ID with a credit card. [View our blog post about the Super 2001 here]

Super Compro

The Super Compro is located one block up the road from Plaza Conchal (across from Long Boards and the Food Court). It’s in the bottom floor of a high rise tower. The Super Compro is similar to the Super 2001, good selection of necessities, not the best place for fresh meat, fish and produce, but it’s a great spot to stop if you need something simple. They also accept cash and credit and will also request to see your ID with a credit card.

Auto Mercado

The Auto Mercado is the premier grocery store in Tamarindo. It’s on the north side of town, just past the river. Due to it’s location past the river port, it’s not an easy walk, especially with families, so it’s best to drive yourself (if you have a car) or to hire a Taxi in town for a few dollars to take you up there. This is a full fledged grocery store with a great selection of virtually everything you may need. Great produce, meats, fish, fruits, etc as well as a huge selection of staples, snacks, liquor, drinks, health products and more. They accept cash and cards and will probably ask for an ID as well.

Additional Shopping

There are not a whole lot of shopping options in Tamarindo if you’re not looking for tourist wear, surf wear or souvenirs. Check around the Diria Resort on the main street, there are a number of women’s clothing stores, etc.